Kids in the Kitchen
Getting kids in the kitchen early is a healthy pursuit in more ways than one.
Food is a sensory experience. As we see from the time they are babies and start putting hand to mouth, kids learn through sight, touch, taste and smell. The sooner we get little ones into the kitchen to enjoy food as a sensory experience, the more likely they will be to experiment with color and texture at meal time.
Since cooking is a tactile activity that you can break down into dozens of tasks, each child can take on easy or challenging ones. First, show them the task and then let them do it on their own. Only step in to help if they are truly struggling or if you see a danger. Maturity and dexterity differs in each child so work within your child’s ability and interest level.
Of course, safety is a big concern but it presents parents with a teaching and bonding opportunity that benefits not only the child but Mom and Dad too.Here are some valuable SAFETY TIPS.
Working together to create simple dishes will help kids build their math skills by counting and measuring ingredients for a recipe. It can also increase their dexterity and improve their fine motor skills and overall coordination. How about reading the recipe out loud and hunting down the ingredients? That is mini scavenger hunt in the making.
Let’s not forget the feeling of accomplishment which builds self-esteem and sharing skills. Getting kids into the kitchen can be a joyful experience for all. Motivating your kiddo to expand their interest and the variety of foods they are willing to eat: Bonus! Be adventurous and create memories that will be there for years to come.
Try my Kid-friendly Pizza recipe!
Depending on the age of your little ones, they may be able to do many of the prep tasks in this recipe. Use this guide to help you decide what will be age/ability appropriate. I will tell you that my little one did most all of the tasks (except oven/grill) with my supervision and she is just 4 years old.
RESOURCES
https://www.nutrition.gov/life-stages/children/kids-kitchen
http://www.choosemyplate.gov/sites/default/files/audiences/KitchenHelperActivities.pdf
One of my favorite cooking sprays-http://winonapure.com/
http://www.parents.com/baby/safety/food/toddler-kitchen-safety-basics/
